WNPA Awards 2016

Washington Newspaper Publishers Association

Building on the best

BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

129th annual convention, Wenatchee, WA Oct. 13-15, 2016

2016 Better Newspaper Contest

Congratulations to you from the trenches

I’m proud to rank myself since 1982 among the muckrakers who have participated in Washington Newspaper Publisher Association activities.

The Better Newspaper Sullivan Contest is how we recognize individuals, teams of people, and businesses

as a whole for the quality work we do in, with and for our communities.

It’s a good feeling to be among those professionals who share deadline pressure, marketing goals, ad design ideas, and photographic challenges. Until you’re in the trenches, it’s hard to see the mud.

That’s why we’re here – the WNPA – to help wipe off the mud too often thrown at our profession in

2016 Contest Facts JUDGES: New York Press Association BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST COMMITTEE Chair: Patrick Sullivan, Port Townsend Leader Committee Members Fred Obee, WNPA C.J. Burk, WNPA

This special section was edited, designed and produced by the WNPA staff, Executive Director Fred Obee and Assistant Director C.J. Burk. Printing was provided by the Wenatchee World.

The betterbnc.com website is provided and hosted by SmallTownPapers (smalltownpapers.com.)

Additional copies of this publication are available from WNPA by request to Fred Obee at fredobee@ wnpa.com or by mail at WNPA, PO Box 389, Port Townsend, WA 98368.

Cover photos are by Brian Kelly, Lloyd Mullen, Michael Dashiell and Roger Harnack.

Web: 29 General Excellence: 45 Number of Participating Newspapers: 59 CONTEST PERIODS Regular Contest: April 1, 2015-March 31, 2016 Tourism Special Sections: June 1, 2015May 31, 2016 General Excellence dates: Sept. 23 and Sept. 30.

NUMBER OF ENTRIES BY DIVISION Advertising: 302 Special Sections: 148 News: 1,256 Photography: 362

About this publication

general, and sometimes at us, personally. I went into J-School with eyes open, realizing that criticism comes with the territory.

That’s a lesson learned by those of you who fell into a job at your hometown paper.

Roses are better than thorns, and our Better Newspaper Contest recognizes the difference. As a BNC committee member for more than 20 years,

CIRCULATION GROUPS Circulation Group I – up to 2,500 Circulation Group II – 2,501-5,000 Circulation Group III – 5,001-12,50 Circulation Group IV- 12,501 and up

and chair for 10, a goal has been to reward our members for their excellence.

It’s not just a certificate, it is reassurance that your professional contemporaries recognize your efforts.

First place, second or third – it doesn’t matter where you place - it’s all good.

This is my swan song as your BNC committee chair. It’s been a pleasure to represent all who toil in the trenches.

There’s a reason that “freedom of the press” is in the First Amendment.

Let’s continue to exercise that freedom, to support each other, and to strive for excellence in the work we do for our publications, and our communities.

Patrick J. Sullivan Editor Port Townsend & Jefferson County Leader BNC Committee chair

Maxim wins Turnbull award; Stoner accepts Bradley honor

Lori Maxim, a former WNPA board president who rose through the ranks at Sound Publishing to be one of its top executives, received the Miles Turnbull Master Editor Publisher award at the 2016 annual convention.

Maxim worked at Sound publishing from its start and helped it grow to become the largest community newspaper group in Washington.

Jerri Stoner has been a vital part of the community newspaper business in multiple states over the past 50 years, working long hours helping to do whatever it takes to get the next edition out on time.

With her daughter Jana, she currently works at the Northern Kittitas County Tribune filling in as she has done for more than five decades, doing whatever needs doing.

Contents Advertising Divison ............................................................3-6 Special Sections ...................................................................7-8 General Excellence .............................................................9-10 News Division ...................................................................11-19 Photography Division ......................................................20-23 Digital Division .....................................................................23

2 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Advertising AD OF THE YEAR

Best Branding AdSingle Ad for Single Advertiser Groups 1 & 2

Northern Light Ruth Lauman, Janet McCall San Juan Airlines

First Place Dana Sphar We sell spirit (Prickly Pear) Methow Valley News Second Place Brad Thew H and R Block Newport Miner Third Place Elaine Schneider Smith Funeral Homes Daily Sun News

Best Single Ad for Single Advertiser, Promoting a Sale or Event, Smaller than ½ Page Groups 1 & 2 First Place Dana Sphar 4th of July Parade in Twisp Methow Valley News Second Place Casey Clark, Terry Hamberg NOW OPEN! #9 Miner’s Grill Northern Kittitas County Tribune Third Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Making Spirits Right Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

Group 3

First Place Linda Frizzell Sunrise Equine Mason County Journal Second Place Amy Jordan, Marian Roh Elevated Ice Cream, “Chocolate is for Lovers” Port Townsend Leader Third Place Linda Frizzell Root Cellar Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Kelsey Thomas, Ariel Naumann Beat the Winter Rush!

Port Orchard Independent Second Place Andi Schwartz Help the Hazel Dell Metro Reflector Third Place Kelsey Thomas, Mary Mollahan $179 Lease Per Month Port Orchard Independent

Group 3

Group 2

First Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Tradition Continues Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Second Place Terry Hamberg All NATIONS Heritage Night 2015 Northern Kittitas County Tribune Third Place Rebecca Collins, Kimberlly Winjum Three new Fragrances Thymes South Whidbey Record

Group 3

First Place Ruth Lauman, Janet McCall San Juan Airlines Northern Light Second Place Jen Clark, Sara Radka Jefferson Healthcare, Ground Breaking Port Townsend Leader Third Place Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst Blaine Chamber/Fourth of July Northern Light

Best Single Ad for Single Advertiser Promoting Group 4 a Sale or Event- ½ page or larger First Place Group 1 Lisa Yaskus, Kae Lamberton First Place Jessica Blancas Anytime Fitness Quincy Valley Post Register Second Place Jessica Blancas Cave B Quincy Valley Post Register

Himalayan Café Renton Reporter Second Place Kae Lamberton, List Yaskus Feast Buffet Renton Reporter Third Place Cindy Ducich, Marcie Shannon City of Federal Way 25th Anniversary Federal Way Mirror

First Place Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst Drayton Harbor Oyster Company Northern Light Second Place Jen Clark, Sara Radka Bob Triggs, Little Stone Flyfisher Guide Port Townsend Leader Third Place Will Adams The Smokin’ Gnome Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Branches Garden Center Federal Way Mirror Second Place Kelsey Thomas, Ariel Naumann Kitsap Veterinary Hospital, Your member of our family!

Port Orchard Independent Third Place Cindy Ducich, Marcie Shannon Salon St. John Federal Way Mirror

Most Effective Use of Small Space (B/W or Spot Color) Group 2

First Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Book Department Features Books about Egypt Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Second Place Brad Thew The Hare Studio Newport Miner Third Place Brad Thew Relax, Rest, Recoup-Days Inn Newport Miner

2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 3

Advertising Community Service

Community Service

First Place Daily Sun News-Food drive event-Job Wise

First Place Mason County Journal- It’s an amazing feeling – Will Adams

Second Place Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber-Are You Ready? Daralyn Anderson & Nance Scott

Second Place Northern Light–Whatcom Humane Society – Doug DeVisser, Catherine Darkenwald

Third Place Nisqually Valley News- NVM Relay Fundraisers – Nicole Kiourkas

Third Place Port Townsend Leader –Public Utility District, Thank You– Jen Clark, Sara Radka

Groups 1 & 2

Most Effective Use of Small Space (B/W or Spot Color) Group 3 First Place Cait Rainsberry Ellensburg Floral Girls Night Out Daily Record Second Place Megan Woodruff Vinman’s Bakery Daily Record Third Place Doug DeVisser, Catherine Darkenwald Skagit’s Own Fish Market Northern Light

Group 4

First Place Kent Staff Celebrate your well-trained dog!

Kent Reporter Second Place Andi Schwartz The Ladies Room Reflector

Multiple Advertiser Ad, on to two full pages Group 1 First Place Jessica Blancas Harvest Pages Quincy Valley Post-Register Second Place Cindy Vest The best presents are right here in town!

LaConner Weekly News Third Place Jessica Blancas Mother’s Day Quincy Valley Post-Register

Group 2

First Place Daralynn Anderson, Nance Scott Go Seniors 2015 Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber 4 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Groups 3 & 4

Second Place Staff Green Bluff Newport Miner Third Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Halloween Safety Game Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

Group 3

First Place Megan Woodruff Back to School Safety Daily Record Second Place Jennifer Miller Best Navy Base Whidbey News-Times Third Place Paul Brown, StevenPowell, Brandon Adam Arlington High School Sports Posters Arlington Times

Group 4

First Place Paul Brown, Steven Powell, Brandon Adam Marysville High School Posters Marysville Globe Second Place Staff Mother’s Day Kent Reporter Third Place Kae Lamberton, Staff Halloween Happenings Renton Reporter

Ad Campaign for Single Advertiser (B/W or Color) Group 1 First Place Jessica Blancas Quincy School District Bond Campaign Quincy Valley Post-Register

Group 2

First Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Shop Vashon Passport Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Second Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Granny’s Attic Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Vanessa Calverley Ace Hardware Bainbridge Island Review

Group 3

First Place Will Adams, Lloyd Mullen Doos Donuts Ad Campaign Mason County Journal Second Place Jen Clark, Sara Radka Key City Fish Campaign Port Townsend Leader Third Place Mark Gillespie, Kelsey Thomas, John Rodriguez, Johanna Buxton Clear Creek RV Center-Trips on a Tank Bremerton Patriot

Group 4

First Place Kae Lamberton, Lisa Yaskus Ask Your Lawyer Renton Reporter

Use of Process Color in a Full Page Ad Group 1 First Place Jessica Blancas Heritage Multicultural Church Quincy Valley Post-Register

Advertising Use of Process Color in a Full Page Ad Group 2

Group 3

First Place Catherine Darkenwald, Doug DeVisser Gathering Glass Northern Light Second Place Jennifer Miller Quilters Workshop Yarn Sale Whidbey News-Times Third Place Amy Jordan, Marian Roh Main Street Program, Girl’s Night Out Port Townsend Leader

First Place Marleen Martinez, Vanessa Calverley Bainbridge Island Riding School Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Terry Hamberg ALL NATIONS Heritage Night 2015 Northern Kittitas County Tribune Third Place Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Gift of Caring Bainbridge Island Review

Group 4

Group 3

First Place Amy Jordan, Marian Roh Itali Lambertini Port Townsend Leader Second Place Will Adams Shelton Health and Rehab Mason County Journal Third Place Dave Pierik, Will Adams Community Lifeline Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Bryon Kempf, Jessica Martindale Seaport Salon Spa-Thanks for voting us #1 Central Kitsap Reporter Second Place Marcie Shannon, Kay Miller AJ for Federal Way Federal Way Mirror Third Place Kelsey Thomas Bruce Titus Port Orchard Port Orchard Independent

Use of Process Color ½ Pg. or Larger Groups 1&2 First Place Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Reclaim Your Health Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Bainbridge Island Health and Rehabilitation Bainbridge Island Review Third Place Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Build Your Dream Home Bainbridge Island Review

Group 3

First Place Mark Gillespie, Bill McDonald Dahlquist’s Winter is Coming North Kitsap Herald Second Place Johanna Buxton, Jessica Martindale All About Transmissions & Automotive Bremerton Patriot 5 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Third Place Catherine Brewer, Marian Roh Quimper Mercantile, Yes We Can Port Townsend Leader

Group 4

First Place John Rodriguez, Bill McDonald Peninsula Paint-Grand Opening Central Kitsap Reporter Second Place Kelsey Thomas, Johanna Buxton Shop Belfair Port Orchard Independent Third Place Kay Miller, Marcie Shannon Jay’s Asian Grill Federal Way Mirror

Use of Process Color-Smaller than ½ Pg. Group 1 First Place Shane Watson The Place Journal of the San Juan Islands Second Place Jessica Blancas Kwon Family Dentistry Quincy Valley Post-Register

Group 2

First Place Vanessa Calverley Angela’s Practical Nutrition Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Nicole Kiourkas Yelm Liquor Nisqually Valley News Third Place Kim Taylor Morris Stay and Play Daily Sun News

First Place Andi Schwartz Fruitcake Reflector Second Place Andi Schwartz Pita House Reflector Third Place Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Natural Health Center Federal Way Mirror

Use of Clip Art in Advertising Groups 1 &2

First Place Job Wise Bowling with Seahawks Daily Sun News Second Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Halloween Safety Game Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

Group 3

First Place Johanna Buxton, Annie Lavalle Café Jacamoe North Kitsap Herald Second Place Mark Gillespie, Bill McDonald Merry Christmas from Advanced Rentals and Sales North Kitsap Herald Third Place Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar Semiahmoo Northern Light

Group 4

First Place Andi Schwartz Keys to the City Reflector Second Place Marcie Shannon Political Debates Federal Way Mirror

Advertising Promotion of Newspaper-Single House Ad Group 1

Third Place Molly Ernst, Ruth Lauman Dog-tober Fest Northern Light

First Place Jessica Blancas Quincy Valley Post-Register Quincy Valley Post-Register

Group 4

First Place Kent Staff Jeff Heiss Painting:Life is Short Kent Reporter Second Place Kent Staff Jeff Heiss Painting: Doing your own painting Kent Reporter Third Place Kent Staff Jeff Heiss Painting: Summers are for fun! (surfer) Kent Reporter

Group 2

First Place Ileana Martinez, Debbie Guerrero 20th Anniversary Special Daily Sun News Second Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Wait Reduction Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Brad Thew, Jeanne Guscott, Natalie Babcock Black Friday at The Miner Newport Miner

Youth-Oriented Content Groups 1 & 2

Group 3

First Place Tom Mullen Like Mason County Journal Second Place Jennifer Miller Happy Holiday from WNG Whidbey News-Times Third Place Leader Staff, Marian Roh Spring for it Port Townsend Leader

Group 3

First Place Staff Federal Way Mirror Merry Christmas Federal Way Mirror Second Place Andi Schwartz The Reflector Open House Reflector

First Place Lloyd Mullen, Will Adams SPOOKTACULAR Mason County Journal Second Place Tom Mullen, Lloyd Mullen, Will Adams OYSTERFEST 2015 Mason County Journal Third Place Jennifer James-Wilson, Sara Radka Scott Wilson Birthday Port Townsend Leader

Most Original Idea Groups 1 & 4

Humor in Advertising Groups 1&2

Group 4

First Place Jessica Blancas Memorial Day Page Quincy Valley Post-Register Second Place Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich, Kay Miller, Rudi Alcott Father’s Day Federal Way Mirror

Group 2

First Place Job Wise, Elaine Schneider, Ileana Martinez, Brad Skiff Go Seahawks Daily Sun News Second Place Casey Clark In Remembrance Northern Kittitas County Tribune Third Place Terry Hamberg, Lisa French, Casey Clark, Jana Stoner The Great Christmas in Cle Elum Caper Northern Kittitas County Tribune 6 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

First Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott New Year, New Rear Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Second Place Kim Taylor Morris Back to School Daily Sun News Third Place Nicole Kiourkas Attwood’s Auto Nisqually Valley News

Group 3

First Place Jan Clark, Sara Radka Coldwell Banker Best Homes, Realtor with a Cause Port Townsend Leader Second Place Staff Choice Auto Group Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle

First Place Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Ace Merry Christmas Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Happy Holidays from these Local Merchants Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Elaine Schneider Hop down and visit the Easter Bunny Daily Sun News

Group 3

First Place Jennifer Miller Halloween Costumes Whidbey News-Times Second Place Catherine Brewer, Chris Hawley JeffCo Parks & Recreations, Kids Driving you Crazy Port Townsend Leader Third Place Jennifer Miller ABC’s of School Safety Whidbey News-Times

Group 4

First Place Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Community in Schools Federal Way Mirror

Special sections

Topical/Non-Tourism Special Sections Group 1

Group 4

Group 2

Group 4 Tourism/Community Guide Special Sections First Place Kent Staff Group 1

First Place Colleen Smith Armstrong, Meredith Griffith Women in Business Islands’ Sounder Second Place Katie Teachout Honoring Veterans Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Third Place Katie Teachout Fishing Derby hits record numbers Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune First Place Staff Bainbridge Island Celebrate Summer 2015 Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Job Wise, Julia Hart, Staff A Salute to Heroes Daily Sun News Third Place Tim Graff, Bob Story, Job Wise A Salute to Dairies Daily Sun News

Group 3

First Place Staff The Marijuana Issue Mason County Journal Second Place Staff Tis the Season 2015 North Kitsap Herald Third Place Kara Furr, Louise Mugar, Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman Pacific Coast Weddings 2016 Northern Light 7 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

First Place Staff 2015 Veterans Day Federal Way Mirror Second Place Staff Tis the Season - Port Orchard Port Orchard Independent Third Place Jody Knoblich, Steven Powell, Paul Brown, JoAnn Flynn 2015 Spring Health & Wellness Marysville Globe

Group 3

First Place Gary Peterson Wayfinder Daily Record Second Place Staff Mason County 2016 Visitor’s Guide Mason County Journal Third Place Cait Rainsberry Central Washington Visitors Guide Daily Record

First Place Staff Weddings in the San Juan Islands 2016 Islands’ Sounder Second Place Staff The Book of the San Juan Islands Islands’ Sounder Third Place Staff Visitor’s Guide Springtide 2016-17 Journal of the San Juan Islands

Kent Residents’ Guide Kent Reporter Second Place Staff 2016 Discover Kitsap Port Orchard Independent Third Place Kent Staff Kent Cornucopia Days Kent Reporter

Group 2

First Place Staff Passionate Pursuits Camas-Washougal Post-Record Second Place Staff Methow Home 2016 Methow Valley News Third Place Staff Made in the Methow Methow Valley News

First Place Rebecca Sedlak, John Bruijn Our Coast Magazine 2016 Chinook Observer Second Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott, Dennis Clouse, Anneli Fogt and Staff 2016-17 Destination Vashon Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Staff Bainbridge Island Almanac Bainbridge Island Review

Lifestyle/Culture sections Groups 1 & 2

Special sections Group 3

First Place Cait Rainsberry Ellensburg Rodeo Program Daily Record Second Place Megan Woodruff Ellensburg Rodeo Hall of Fame of the Drums of Fame Daily Record Third Place Patrick Sullivan, Chris Hawley Wooden Boat Festival Port Townsend Leader

Group 4

Group 3

First Place Cait Rainsberry Savor the Season Daily Record Second Place Patrick Sullivan, Marian Roh Working Waterfront Port Townsend Leader Third Place Staff Mount Baker Experience Spring 2015 Northern Light

Group 4

First Place Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich, Kay Miller 2015 Let’s Eat Dining Guide Federal Way Mirror

Special Sections/Festivals Special Sections Group 1 First Place Staff Farm Tour 2015 Whidbey Examiner

Group 2

First Place Staff 2015 Holiday Gift Guide Northern Kittitas County Tribune Second Place Anacortes American Staff Anacortes Waterfront Festival Anacortes American Third Place Vanessa Calverly, John Rodriguez Senior Salute 2015 Bainbridge Island Review

8 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

First Place Staff Celebrating Port Orchard 125 Years Port Orchard Independent Second Place Ken Vance, Andi Schwartz, Michael Schultz, Joanna Yorke Reflector Fall Sports 2015 Reflector Third Place Staff Kitsap County Fair Central Kitsap Reporter

Best Special Section Cover Group 1

First Place Johanna Buxton Home & Garden Cover Journal of the San Juan Islands Second Place Jessica Blancas Quincy Tourism Guide Quincy Valley Post-Register Third Place Johanna Buxton Health & Wellness Guide Cover Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott 2015 Holiday Guide for Vashon Maury Island Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Second Place Marleen Martinez, Vanessa Calverley Bainbridge Almanac Bainbridge Island Review Third Place Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott, Natalie Martin 2015-2016 Destination Vashon Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

Group 3

First Place Staff Vactionland 2016 Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Second Place Staff The Marijuana Issue Mason County Journal

Third Place Gary Peterson EburgMoms Daily Record

Group 4

First Place Andi Schwartz, Michael Schultz Reflector Fall Sports 2015 Reflector Second Place Bryon Kempf South Kitsap Spectrum Port Orchard Independent Third Place Daniel Nash Eastside Scene Aug 2015-Steel and Glory Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter

General Excellence Group I FIRST PLACE Journal of the San Juan Islands Colleen Smith Armstrong, Cali Bagby, Anna Smith SECOND PLACE Whidbey Examiner Staff THIRD PLACE Islands’ Sounder Colleen Smith Armstrong, Cali Bagby, Anna Smith

Group II FIRST PLACE Camas-Washougal Post-Record Staff SECOND PLACE South Whidbey Record Staff THIRD PLACE Chinook Observer Matt Winters

9 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

General Excellence Group III FIRST PLACE Lynden Tribune Staff SECOND PLACE Mason County Journal Staff THIRD PLACE Port Townsend Leader Scott Wilson, Staff

Group IV FIRST PLACE Federal Way Mirror Rudi Alcott, Carrie Rodriguez, Terrence Hill & Raechel Dawson SECOND PLACE Sammamish Review Staff THIRD PLACE Renton Reporter Dean Radford & Brian Beckley

2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 10

News 2016 SPORTS WRITER OF THE YEAR

2016 NEWS WRITER OF THE YEAR

2016 FEATURE WRITER OF THE YEAR

Group 2

Groups 1, 2 & 3

Groups 1 & 2

First Place Chinook Observer -- Patrick Webb

Group 3

First Place Daily Record – Ryan Kuhn Second Place Lynden Tribune – Cameron Van Til Third Place Sequim Gazette – Michael Dashiell

Group 4

First Place Port Orchard Independent-Chris Chancellor

Best News Story-Long Group 1

First Place Megan Hansen New festival rules upset shop owners Whidbey Examiner Second Place Ron Newberry One last trip through the prairie Whidbey Examiner Third Place Katie Teachout Tonasket Airport serving as helibase for firefighting efforts Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Group 2

First Place Marcy Stamper Preliminary report on Twisp River Fire Methow Valley News Second Place Briana Alzola Fidalgo Island Rotary collecting funds for free health care after earthquake Anacortes American Third Place Katie Wilson Chaos & Self-Control Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Brianna Loper Puur-fect for prison Mason County Journal Second Place Allison Arthur Kindness saves church soup program Port Townsend Leader 11 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

First Place Whidbey News-Times-Jessie Stensland Second Place Chinook Observer – Natalie St. John Third Place Sequim Gazette – Alana Linderoth

Group 4

First Place Bellevue Reporter-Allison DeAngelis Second Place Issaquah Press – Scott Stoddard Third Place Kent Reporter – Steve Hunter

First Place Anacortes American – Briana Alzola Second Place Islands’ Sounder – Colleen Smith Armstrong

Group 3

First Place North Kitsap Herald – Richard Walker Second Place Sequim Gazette – Matthew Nash Third Place Whidbey News-Times – Debra Vaughn

Group 4

First Place Federal Way Mirror – Raechel Dawson Second Place Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter – Megan Campbell Third Place Port Orchard Independent – Bob Smith Third Place Michael Dashiell A young man’s struggle, a mother’s grief Sequim Gazette

Group 4

First Place Chris Tucker Satanists’ presence riles up crowd at football game Central Kitsap Reporter Second Place Brian Beckley Twenty years later, a double homicide is still unsolved Renton Reporter Third Place Raechel Dawson Community outraged over rehab facility’s proximity to Federal Way district school Federal Way Mirror

Best News Story-Short Group 1

First Place Ron Newberry History reduced to rubble Whidbey Examiner Second Place Cali Bagby Suspect in Wednesday hit-and-run in custody Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Natalie St. John Cemetery hill slides Chinook Observer

Second Place Ann McCreary An un-bearable situation Methow Valley News Third Place Justin Burnett Aug 22-Pinks or punches South Whidbey Record

Group 3

First Place Dee Camp Texas Creek turns into raging torrent Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Second Place Steve Guntli 55 people affected by E. coli outbreak after Lynden field trip Northern Light Third Place Ian Ferguson Woman crashes stolen school bus, jumps into bay Northern Light

Group 4

First Place Bob Smith Campaign contributions issue ruffles feathers on both sides Port Orchard Independent Second Place Jason Cruz Donnie Chin, ID community protector, slain-Police continue to search for killer Northwest Asian Weekly Third Place Raechel Dawson Federal Way firefighters fight Eastern Washington fires Federal Way Mirror

news Best Breaking News Story Group 1

First Place Katie Teachout Fireworks blamed for Tonasket house fire Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Group 2

First Place Katheryn Houghton, Natalie St. John Shoot threat disrupts classes Chinook Observer Second Place Ann McCreary, Darla Hussey Sifting through the ashes Methow Valley News Third Place Katheryn Houghton Fugitive captured Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Ron Newberry Firefighters keep 10-acre Fort Ebey blaze contained Whidbey News-Times Second Place Brock Hires Search continues for airplane wreckage Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Third Place Dee Camp Okanogan County still in line of fire Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle

Group 4

First Place Allison DeAngelis Toddler killed when car jumps curb, smashes into stroller Bellevue Reporter Second Place Matt Phelps, TJ Martinell Beloved Kirkland resident, former LWSD employee found dead in house fire Kirkland Reporter Third Place Bob Smith Campaign turns ugly: Mayor, Home Builders official in scuffle Port Orchard Independent

Best Health of Medical Story Group 1

First Place Cali Bagby Lyme in the islands” Islands’ Sounder Second Place Leslie Kelly Death is no longer hush hush-SJ Journal Journal of the San Juan Islands Third Place Leslie Kelly The holiday season, grief and loss-SJ Journal Journal of the San Juan Islands

Group 2

First Place Natalie St. John State report: Early death, serious illness haunt Chinook Observer Second Place Natalie St. John Death with dignity Chinook Observer Third Place Katheryn Houghton Living their Reality: Dementia Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Ryan Kuhn Every pitch counts: Local leagues, coaches aim to protect young pitches’ arms Daily Record Second Place Allison Arthur The independent doctor Port Townsend Leader Third Place Dennis Box Tony Ryan finds patience, forgiveness and a second chance Enumclaw Courier-Herald

Group 4

First Place Dean Radford Preparing for the worst: Valley Medical Center staff preps for possibility of Ebola Renton Reporter Second Place Sarah Brenden Learning new strategies to cope with migraines Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Third Place Bob Smith From a mustard seed of faith to Kitsap, Chelene is renewed Port Orchard Independent

Best Environmental Story Group 1

First Place Colleen Smith Armstrong What’s next for Dolphin Bay Rd? Islands’ Sounder Second Place Philip Watness The call of nature causes problems for forest rangers Skamania County Pioneer Third Place Heather Spaulding Trash talk: A story of what washes ashore on San Juan Journal of the San Juan Islands

Group 2

First Place Katie Wilson El Nino will be a big test Chinook Observer

Second Place Don Gronning Preserving water rights Newport Miner Third Place Joan Pringle Still in danger: Orca ‘baby boom’ not enough to move species off endangered list Anacortes American

Group 3

First Place Ray Still Without conservation fund, Washington loses millions Enumclaw Courier-Herald Second Place Ron Newberry Couple protects a nutty piece of paradise Whidbey News-Times Third Place Nicholas Johnson Dishes over Disposables Port Townsend Leader

Group 4

First Place Aaron Kunkler The steady decline of salmon runs to Lake Washington Kirkland Reporter Second Place Steve Powell Building an estuary Marysville Globe Third Place Joanna Yorke Brush Prairie duo Reflector

Best Business News Story (incl. Technology and Agriculture) Group 1

First Place Philip Watness Carson crane shop sends products around the world Skamania County Pioneer Second Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Giving the gift of healing touch Islands’ Sounder Third Place Gary DeVon Hughes Department Store closing for good Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Group 2

First Place Ann McCreary Ranchers scramble to find…

Methow Valley News Second Place Katie Wilson Quantity & Quality Chinook Observer 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 12

News Community Service First Place

North Kitsap Herald– Map your Poulsbo Neighborhood Staff

Second Place

Port Orchard – Port Orchard 125th Anniversary Celebration Bob Smith

Third Place

Nisqually Valley News Relay for Life Staff

Best Business News Story (incl. Technology and Agriculture) Third Place Don Nelson Dollars and sense Methow Valley News

Group 3

First Place Al Camp Bear Creek Golf Course reaches Golden Anniversary Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Second Place Brock Hires Evacuees set up ‘home’ in Depot Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Third Place Steve Powell Disabled workers Arlington Times

Group 4

First Place Briana Gerdeman Wine tasting rooms on agricultural land investigated for zoning violations Woodinville Weekly Second Place Bob Smith Cheaper housing, better lifestyle: Explosive housing costs in Seattle is sparking interest in Kitsap County’s real estate market Port Orchard Independent Third Place Jason Cruz Wrong path-Missed deadlines by developer creates difficulties for Othello project Northwest Asian Weekly

13 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Best Business feature story (incl. Technology and Agriculture) Group 1 First Place Megan Hansen Coupeville Chocolate Walk Whidbey Examiner Second Place Anna V. Smith Canaan the wonder dog Journal of the San Juan Islands Third Place Ron Newberry Whidbey’s ‘No. 2’ attraction Whidbey Examiner

Group 2

First Place Jessica Shelton Crowdfunding a local pizzeria: Bruciato looks for its own brick-and-morar Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Jennie McGhan Winery By Experimentation Daily Sun News Third Place Justin Burnett Tick, tock, tick, tock South Whidbey Record

Group 3

First Place Kirk Boxleitner 3D Hands Arlington Times Second Place Dan Richman Local baker brings artistry to cake making Whidbey News-Times

Third Place Steve Guntli Blaine Marina, Inc. to close after 60 years Northern Light

Group 4

First Place Zachariah Bryan Patsy O’Connell knows a bit about diversity Northwest Asian Weekly Second Place Leah Abraham All eyes on Renton-based potato messaging business Renton Reporter Third Place Joanna Yorke Dapper D offers Reflector

Best Education Story Group 1

First Place Sandy Stokes An agonizing decision for voters LaConner Weekly News Second Place Leslie Kelly Students discover good news about pollutants Journal of the San Juan Islands Third Place Heather Spaulding Little Vet School-Big Dreams Journal of the San Juan Islands

Group 2

First Place Chris Hendrickson Proving pen mightier than the sword Monroe Monitor and Valley News Second Place Marcy Stamper Gun incident at school…

Methow Valley News

News Best Education Story

Third Place Sophia Aldous Substitute teacher shortage hamstrings schools Newport Miner

Group 3

First Place Peter O’Cain From the bottom Bremerton Patriot Second Place Alana Linderoth Sequim’s most vulnerable Sequim Gazette Third Place Julia Martinez Calling all subs Daily Record

Group 4

First Place Joanna Yorke BGSD, teachers still making no progress Reflector Second Place Ana Karen Perez Guzman Idea project gives students and understanding of disabilities Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Third Place Chris Tucker $220 million sought for major CK schools upgrade Central Kitsap Reporter

Best Government Reporting Groups 1 & 2

First Place Natalie St. John Problems at Trailer Lake Chinook Observer Second Place Marcy Stamper Forecast: dry summer with familiar arsenal for fire prevention, suppression Methow Valley News Third Place Natalie St. John Women left out of 19th district Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Kirk Boxleitner Poverty simulation Arlington Times Second Place Roger Harnack Showdown over Three Devils Road Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Third Place Steve Guntli WSDOT chief removed after three years Northern Light

Group 4

First Place Steve Hunter Big concerns, small park Kent Reporter Second Place Megan Campbell Solid Waste contract on hold due to litigation Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter Third Place Assunta Ng Chinese President Xi left-But the real gains still resonate for Seattle Northwest Asian Weekly

Best Crime and Court Story Group 1

First Place Megan Hansen Perpetrator unknown in feline fatality Whidbey Examiner Second Place Gary DeVon Squatters accused of killing woman with pickup truck Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Third Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Orcas High school teacher charged with sexual misconduct Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Justin Burnett Clinton woman faces murder charge in California South Whidbey Record Second Place Natalie St. John Jury hears spine-tingling murder wish Chinook Observer Third Place Sophia Aldous Domestic violence-anonymous me Newport Miner

Group 3

First Place Nicholas Johnson Thompson gets 15 years for murder Port Townsend Leader Second Place Jessie Stensland Fired for harassment, deputy may get job back Whidbey News-Times Third Place Nicholas Johnson Boy, 13, acquitted of alleged school bus rape Port Townsend Leader

Group 4

First Place Allison DeAngelis The league of sex-soliciting gentlemen Bellevue Reporter Second Place Bob Smith Did he or didn’t he huff and puff?

Port Orchard Independent

Third Place Joanna Yorke Friends of BG man Reflector

Comprehensive Coverage of a Single Issue or Series Group 1

First Place Gary DeVon, Katie Teachout, Brent Baker, Zack VanBuskirk Largest Fire in State History Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Second Place Mandi Johnson, Colleen Smith Armstrong, Courtney Oldwyn Orcas foster mom shares her story Islands’ Sounder Third Place Megan Hansen Port of Coupeville takes over management of Greenbank Farm Whidbey Examiner

Group 2

First Place Marcy Stamper, Laurelle Walsh, Ann McCreary Twisp River Fire Methow Valley News Second Place Katie Metzger Mercer Island citizens petition to protect parkland Mercer Island Reporter Third Place Anneli Fogt Tacoma methanol plant Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

Group 3

First Place Jessie Stensland Jail under scrutiny Whidbey News-Times Second Place Julia Martinez Ellensburg’s Hispanic community Daily Record Third Place Dan Richman Pioneer Way eyed; What’s the right plan?

Whidbey News-Times

Group 4

First Place Peggy Chapman, Assunta Ng Hookah Controversy Northwest Asian Weekly Second Place Allison DeAngelis Allegations surround Bellevue High School football program Bellevue Reporter Third Place Samantha Pak Diversity in Redmond Redmond Reporter 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 14

News Investigative Reporting Groups 1 & 2

First Place Anneli Fogt Island not actually America’s most liberal area Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Second Place Paul Delaney Cheney loses host role in Little League tournament Cheney Free Press Third Place Natalie St. John Candidate’s past belies pro-family platform Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Lauren Takores, Nicole Klauss, Andy Matarrese The health of KVH Daily Record Second Place Jessie Stensland Three have died inside Island County jail in nine years Whidbey News-Times Third Place Gordon Weeks Mountainous hurdles for Shelton Hills Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Scott Stoddard, Tom Corrigan Issaquah’s Contaminated Water Well Issaquah Press Second Place Steve Powell Rainbow Love Investigative Reporting Third Place Allison DeAngelis 7 priests assigned to Bellevue abused children over decades Bellevue Reporter

Best General Feature Story, Long Group 1

First Place Nicole Jennings Feeling terror every time I leave the house LaConner Weekly News Second Place Katie Teachout Volunteers, heroes by all accounts Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Best General Feature Story, Long Group 2 First Place Natalie St. John Somebody else’s miracle Chinook Observer

15 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Second Place Susan Riemer Islanders with ties to Nepal work to bolster relief efforts Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Jessica Shelton Tiny house, big problems Bainbridge Island Review

Group 3

First Place Allison Arthur ‘The Cabins’…Haines Street…

Port Townsend Leader Second Place Debra Vaughn Sea Hunt Whidbey News-Times Third Place Ryan Kuhn Community assists Kittitas family after loss Daily Record

Group 4

First Place Joanna Yorke A special night Reflector Second Place Stacy Nguyen, Emiri Aoki Young girl’s old suitcase teachers world children about Holocaust Northwest Asian Weekly Third Place Raechel Dawson Fairy Godmother for transgender community reveals challenging past Federal Way Mirror

Best General Feature Story, Short Group 1 First Place Cali Bagby A powerful love Journal of the San Juan Islands Second Place Kate Daniel Garage sale unearths mementos Whidbey Examiner Third Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Canela, the wonder dog Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Marcy Stamper Lamprey release seeks….

Methow Valley News Second Place Laurelle Walsh The gift of Life Methow Valley News

Third Place Natalie St. John Bear’s necessities Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Allison Arthur Message in a bottle found 40 years later Port Townsend Leader Second Place Matt Carstens Everybody’s favorite dachshund rules that roost at Ellensburg Golf Course Daily Record Third Place Ron Newberry Neighborly way Whidbey News-Times

Group 4

First Place Megan Campbell Sammamish teen brings tech know-how to students in Africa Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter Second Place Leah Abraham Renton boy wins chance to report on Super Bow from sidelines Renton Reporter Third Place Leah Abraham Sharing Renton’s rock n roll legacy Renton Reporter

Best Lifestyle Feature Story Group 1

First Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Building Jordan a set of wheels Islands’ Sounder Second Place Emily Greenberg Inside Passage-Journal of the San Juans Journal of the San Juan Islands Third Place Colleen Smith Armstrong A semester at sea; an island girl shares her story of travel Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Kate Daniel Saying goodbye to Lulu South Whidbey Record Second Place Sophia Aldous Long distance cross country Newport Miner Third Place Katie Wilson Flight of the honeybee Chinook Observer

News Group 3

First Place Andrew Davis For the love of the turn Mason County Journal Second Place Debra Vaughn Cheerios: Teen’s photo catches attention of cereal-maker Whidbey News-Times Third Place Patricia Coate By the bay, by the bay, by the beautiful bay Sequim Gazette

Group 4

First Place David Hayes For the Love of Writing Issaquah Press Second Place Steve Powell GoFundMe Marysville Globe Third Place Assunta Ng Blessed with two fathers-Thank you, Dads!

Northwest Asian Weekly

Best Personality Profile, Long Group 1

First Place Katie Teachout Local woman fondly recalls service in the Navy during World War II Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Second Place Katie Teachout Big Al recalls his time during World War II Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Group 2

First Place Natalie St. John Local Hero Chinook Observer Second Place Leslie Kelly A medley of memories Bainbridge Island Review Third Place Ann McCreary A wild ride Methow Valley News

Group 3

First Place Nicholas Johnson Meeting Emelia Port Townsend Leader Second Place Brianna Loper ‘Fight like hell’ Shelton woman recounts WWI Berlin Mason County Journal Third Place Sara Bruestle Baseball pioneer played for Mukilteo team Mukilteo Beacon

Group 4

First Place Jason Cruz Susumu Ito: A Wonderful Life Northwest Asian Weekly Second Place Bob Smith Being an auto mechanic is not just a ‘guy’ thing Port Orchard Independent Third Place Heidi Sanders Tragedy into triumph Kent Reporter

Best Personality Profile-Short Group 1 First Place Heather Spaulding Vouri 20 years-SJ Journal Journal of the San Juan Islands Second Place Anna V. Smith Priest with a spirit-SJ Journal Journal of the San Juan Islands

Group 2

First Place Jessica Shelton Time to thanks the Academy: Bainbridge architect receives an unexpected award Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Juli Goetz Morser Vashon author launches third novel in island trilogy Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Juli Goetz Morser The life of an artist: an 80-year retrospective Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

Group 3

First Place Kate Daniel Woman pens memoirs of childhood in WWII England Whidbey News-Times Second Place Steve Powell Isis worse than devil Arlington Times Third Place Laura Daniali Novelist engineers career on and off stage Edmonds Beacon

Group 4

First Place Mark Klaas Woodworker spreads joy Kent Reporter Second Place Raechel Dawson Federal Way author shares father’s bicycle adventures Federal Way Mirror Third Place Nina Huang No More Whispers: Doris Jeong Raises AwarenesAbout Little People in Our Community Northwest Asian Weekly

Best Story on the Arts Group 1

First Place Katie Teachout Local area artist told to take a walk Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Second Place Colleen Smith Armstrong We are all wild and precious Islands’ Sounder Third Place Heather Spaulding Ai Wei Wei: Art, survival, and beauty Journal of the San Juan Islands

Group 2

First Place Katie Wilson The art of cleaning fish Chinook Observer Second Place Juli Goetz Morser Formerly censored painting now belongs to SAM Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Lynda Layne Unwin carves wood from within Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Kate Daniel A family influence Whidbey News-Times Second Place Andy Matarrese Ellensburg monk Jampa Dorje Daily Record Third Place Sophie Bonomi Making the invisible visible: Kitsap artists help tell vendors’ stories in protratis North Kitsap Herald

Group 4

First Place Steve Powell Comic not PC Marysville Globe Second Place Vivian Nguyen Slants? Is the Name Offensive?

Northwest Asian Weekly

Best Feature Page Design Group 1

First Place Kat Sherman Shakespeare Journal of the San Juan Islands Second Place Kat Sherman, Cali Bagby Seal Feature Page Journal of San Juan Islands Third Place Kat Sherman Lavender Scones Journal of the San Juan Islands 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 16

News Best Feature Page Design Group 2 First Place Adam Drey and Staff Flight of the Ferries Chinook Observer Second Place Ben Watanabe Django Fest Northwest South Whidbey Record Third Place Brian Kelly Film noir classics Bainbridge Island Review

Group 3

First Place Michael Dashiell Sequim Gazette- Dec 16, 2015 Sequim Gazette Second Place Carol Ladwig Photo contest results Snoqualmie Valley Record Third Place Brianna Loper Editing Etiquette Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Sarah Brenden In The Kitchen-Desserts for Two Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Second Place Scott Stoddard The Beat, Jan. 28, 2016 Issaquah Press Third Place Sarah Brenden In the Kitchen-Cooking with Beer Covington/Maple Valley Reporter

Best Front Page Design Group 1

First Place Megan Hansen Musselfest front page Whidbey Examiner Second Place Colleen Smith Armstrong, Cali Bagby June 10, 2016 Islands’ Sounder Third Place Cali Bagby Front Page September 30 Journal of San Juan Islands

Group 2

First Place Justin Burnett Love at first flight South Whidbey Record Second Place Darla Hussey Aug. 26, 2015 MVN front page Methow Valley News 17 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Third Place Brian Kelly Showing love for the Earth Bainbridge Island Review

Third Place Brianna Loper Blimp stops in Shelton during retirement tour Mason County Journal

Group 3

Group 4

First Place Nicholas Johnson, Katie Kowalski Front Page Design – Drought Port Townsend Leader Second Place Michael Dashiell Sequim Gazette-Aug. 19, 2015 Sequim Gazette Third Place Keven Graves Summer Sails Whidbey News-Times

Group 4

First Place Bob Smith Port Orchard Independent October 23, 2015 Port Orchard Independent Second Place Scott Stoddard Skiing Si Issaquah Press Third Place Andi Schwartz Ridgefield Celebrates Reflector

News of the Weird Group 1

First Place Megan Hansen Meter error nets school 101k bill Whidbey Examiner

Group 2

First Place Sophia Aldous Found finger causes alarm at casino Newport Miner Second Place Sarah Low Island dogs’ harrowing and heartwarming story goes global Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber Third Place Justin Burnett Rooster ruckus? Barnyard move-ins have Langley clucking South Whidbey Record

Group 3

First Place Ron Newberry Hauling in a real-life kraken Whidbey News-Times Second Place Scott Wilson, Patrick Sullivan Local deer head to court Port Townsend Leader

First Place Chris Chancellor Port Orchard Goodwill employee finds ‘donated’ grenade Port Orchard Independent Second Place Chris Tucker Shoplifter tells deputies Jesus told him to steal energy drink Central Kitsap Reporter Third Place Briana Gerdeman No one harmed when metal object fell through Bothell home’s roof Woodinville Weekly

Best Sports News Story Group 1

First Place Philip Watness Bulldogs beat Rainier, 23-22, on Hail Mary Skamania County Pioneer

Group 2

First Place Patrick Webb Naselle actors play their roles Chinook Observer Second Place Evan Thompson Five Falcon grapplers advance to WIAA Mat Classic South Whidbey Record Third Place Joe Livarchik State champs; Islanders overcome controversial call to win first state championship Mercer Island Reporter

Best Sports News Story Group 3 First Place Cameron Van Til Miracle comeback Lynden Tribune Second Place Alexandria Valdez League musical chairs Mason County Journal Third Place Cameron Van Til Back-to-back champs Lynden Tribune

Group 4

First Place TJ Martinel Former JHS students involved in assault playing football again, one in Kirkland Kirkland Reporter

News Best Sports News Story Group 4

Second Place Shaun Scott Skyline conquers Lake Stevens in thriller Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter Third Place Terrence Hill Four crowned state champions at Mat Classic Federal Way Mirror

Best Sports Feature Group 1

First Place Courtney Oldwyn Punching like a girl: Empowering young women Journal of the San Juan Islands

Group 2

First Place Tyler Huey The Art of Stealing Nisqually Valley News Second Place Marcy Stamper The unique lure of ice fishing Methow Valley News Third Place Patrick Webb All on the line Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Alexandria Valdez Coach aims to strike Mason County Journal Second Place David Pan Twin athletes-in sync on and off the court Edmonds Beacon Third Place Alexandria Valdez Grappling with new challenges Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Brandon Adam Navarro overcomes obstacles Marysville Globe Second Place Chris Chancellor Northwest Derby Company jamming in new venue Port Orchard Independent Third Place Terrence Hill Raiders basketball player perseveres through adversity Federal Way Mirror

Best Sports Personality Profile Groups 1 & 2

First Place Paul Delaney Sherritt adds Grey Cup to championship collection Cheney Free Press]

Second Place Paul Delaney Vijil’s Shock arena football career earns him special honor Cheney Free Press Third Place Lynda Lane Mush Chinook Observer

Group 3

First Place Jim Waller Popular Oak Harbor coach remembered Whidbey News-Times Second Place Michael Dashiell The Magnificent Seven Sequim Gazette Third Place Alexandria Valdez Spyder staying strong Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Chris Chancellor Williams Leaving hardwood legacy Auburn Reporter Second Place Mark Klass Thompson inspires Kent Reporter Third Place Heidi Sanders Statistician an inspiration Kent Reporter

Best Sports Page Design Groups 1 & 2

First Place Adam Drey and Staff Making memories, learning lessons Chinook Observer Second Place Nicole Kiourkas, Tyler Huey NVM Sports Nisqually Valley News Third Place Roger Harnack First State Win Daily Sun News

Group 3

First Place Michael Dashiell Magnificent Seven Sequim Gazette Second Place Brandon Adam State track meet Arlington Times Third Place Michael Dashiell All League Honors Sequim Gazette

Group 4

First Place Terrence Hill Boys swimming and diving state championships Federal Way Mirror

Best Editorial Group 1

First Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Accept I-502 into our communities Islands’ Sounder Second Place Cali Bagby Ferries should support local riders Journal of the San Juan Islands Third Place Colleen Smith Armstrong When a teacher crosses the line Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Matt Winters There is a Code of the West: Don’t commit arson Chinook Observer Second Place John Fannin Wanted: State leaders who lead Daily Sun News

Group 3

First Place Scott Wilson Myles Carroll has lessons for us Port Townsend Leader Second Place Chris Thew Puff or pass on economic benefits Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Third Place Richard Walker Do a better job with outreach, planning meetings North Kitsap Herald

Best Editorial Group 4

First Place Bob Smith Election season leaves a sour after-taste Port Orchard Independent Second Place Ana Karen Perez-Guzman Deciphering health plan terms and numbers Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Third Place Steve Powell Alternatives to fireworks ban Marysville Globe

2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 18

News Best Editorial Cartoon Groups 1, 2, 3 &4

First Place Brad Skiff He’s gonna vote for Hillary Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Second Place Brad Skiff I-1366 Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle

Best Editorial Pages Groups 1 & 2

First Place Staff Editorial Pages Methow Valley News Second Place Michael Wagar Opinion Nisqually Valley News

Group 3

First Place Steve Powell Only you can prevent Fourth fires Arlington Times Second Place Staff February 3 and March 9 Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle

Group 4

First Place Staff Issaquah Press Editorial Pages Issaquah Press Second Place Bob Smith Port Orchard Independent

Best General Interest Column or Blog Group 1

First Place Mel Damski If I ran the Zoo LaConner Weekly News Second Place Mickey Bambrick Life on the Ridge LaConner Weekly News Third Place Mickey Bambrick Nuggets from Norway LaConner Weekly News

Group 2

First Place Don Nelson No Bad Days Methow Valley News Second Place Matt Winters Editor’s Notebook Chinook Observer

Third Place Sophia Aldous Sophie’s Choice Newport Miner

Group 3

First Place Roger Harnack On the Hot Seat Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Second Place Ray Still Our Corner Enumclaw Courier-Herald Third Place Chris Thew Point of Thew Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle

Group 4

First Place Greg Farrar Greg Farrar Off The Press columns Issaquah Press Second Place Assunta Ng Publisher’s Blog Northwest Asian Weekly Third Place Brian Beckley Editor’s Note by Brian Beckley Renton Reporter

19 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Best Humorous Column or Blog Groups 1, 2, 3 &4 First Place Steve Guntli Uphill battle: an indoor enthusiast ventures into the dreaded outdoors Northern Light Second Place Dennis Box The drought and psycho grass, adding words to the dictionary. The political race is on Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Third Place Sophia Aldous Sophie’s Choice Newport Miner

Best Topical Columns Groups 1, 2 & 4

First Place Vivian Nguyen A-POP (All things Asian pop culture!)

Northwest Asian Weekly Second Place Sue Phillips Plant Lady LaConner Weekly News

Third Place Tyler Huey Hydros, Extreme Sports, Rainier Baseball Nisqually Valley News

Group 3

First Place Steve Powell Surviving an emergency; help those who need it most; mock disaster Arlington Times Second Place Chris Thew No Leftovers Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Third Place Steve Guntli The Indoor Report: Oscar predictions Northern Light

Photography Photographer of the Year First Place

Scott Stoddard Issaquah Press

Second Place

Roger Harnack Daily Sun News

Third Place

Lloyd Mullen Shelton-Mason County Journal

B/W Feature Photo and More Groups 1, 2 & 4

First Place Luciano Marano Behind the scenes, in front of the mirror Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Natalie St. John A powerful storm Chinook Observer Third Place Matt Phelps 7 Hills of Kirkland expands to honor veterans, include more community events Kirkland Reporter

Scott Stoddard, First Place, Photographer of the Year.

Group 3

First Place Brianna Loper Pow wow Mason County Journal Second Place Steve Mullensky Polar Pioneer, largest oil drilling platform in US, passes Port Townsend Port Townsend Leader Third Place Steve Guntli Splash Park Northern Light

B/W Sports Photo-Action or Feature Groups 1 & 2 First Place Luciano Marano A jury of his peers Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Evan Thompson South Whidbey’s 11/12 All Star Little Leaguers still alive in district tournament South Whidbey Record Third Place Evan Thompson South Whidbey’s offensive dominance shines against rival South Whidbey Record

20 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Roger Harnack, Second Place, Photographer of the Year.

Lloyd Mullen, Third Place, Photographer of the Year.

Groups 3 & 4

Second Place Philip Watness Skamania County fair Skamania County Pioneer Third Place Patrick Sullivan, Nicholas Johnson Basketball coaches Port Townsend Leader

First Place Michael Dashiell Wolves Get a Vin Sequim Gazette Second Place Janell Kortlever Shaq Woods Northern Light Third Place Michael Dashiell Making His Pitch Sequim Gazette

B/W Photo Essay Groups 1, 2, 3 & 4

First Place Rachel Bryan, Becky Harmening, Caleb Wheeler, Erin Schroeder SHS homecoming Skamania County Pioneer

Spot News Group 1

First Place Gary DeVon A lone house Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Second Place Gary DeVon Fire bombing tanker helicopter sucks water from Lake Osoyoos Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Photography Spot News Group 1

Third Place Gary DeVon Fire blazes in North County Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Group 2

First Place Justin Burnett Fall storm ravages South End South Whidbey Record Second Place Natalie St. John Long Beach Police Chief Flint Wright Chinook Observer Third Place Ann McCreary Anna Kominak comforts her daughter Grace-Ann after fire destroyed outbuildings Methow Valley News

Group 3

First Place Michael Dashiell Fire Takes Barn at Graysmarsh Sequim Gazette Second Place Peter O’Cain Manette fire displaces 16 Bremerton Patriot Third Place Matthew Nash Residents rescue horse from creek in Dungeness Sequim Gazette

Group 4

First Place Greg Farrar Issaquah Police Officer Troy Kemp Issaquah Press

General News-B/W or Color Groups 1 & 4

First Place Scott Stoddard Tent City 4 resident Bobbi Ehly Issaquah Press Second Place Dennis Box Columns placed for 9/11 memorial in Maple Valley Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Third Place Don Coyote Special Seating LaConner Weekly News

Group 2

First Place Damian Mulinix New ferry Chinook Observer Second Place Luciano Marano Queen of the Weeds Bainbridge Island Review Third Place Luciano Marano School’s out-for protesting Bainbridge Island Review

Michael Dashiell, Sequim Gazette, First Place, Group 3, Spot News.

Group 3

Group 2

Color Feature Photo Group 1

Group 3

First Place Brian Myrick Silent Struggle Daily Record Second Place Alana Linderoth Protestors Aim Shame at Shell Sequim Gazette Third Place Michael Dashiell Eyes on Graduation Sequim Gazette

First Place Don Coyote This much!

LaConner Weekly News Second Place Don Coyote Hang on, baby!

LaConner Weekly News Third Place Katie Teachout Open Fire Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

First Place Dan Trujillo Turn the Paige Camas-Washougal Post-Record Second Place Natalie St. John Head start students Chinook Observer Third Place Justin Burnett Nichols works stretch to better health South Whidbey Record First Place Michael Dashiell Let It Slide, Cowboy Sequim Gazette Second Place Brian Myrick Tractor Tyke Daily Record Third Place Matthew Nash A Whole New World Sequim Gazette

2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 21

Photography Color Feature Photo Group 4

First Place Chris Tucker Sparkling nighttime view of Seattle from central kitsap Central Kitsap Reporter Second Place Sarah Brenden Finding a Friend-kids plat at the lake Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Third Place Chris Tucker Pumpkin Picasso Central Kitsap Reporter

Color Portrait (Human or Animal) Group 1

First Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Mother-daughter Halloween duo Islands’ Sounder Second Place Gary DeVon Linda Colvin, dressed in a purple grape costume Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Third Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Community gardening for all ages Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Brian Kelly Fresh song from a seasoned soul Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Natalie St. John Tiger Chinook Observer Third Place Luciano Marano Ferry Boat’s Last chief Bainbridge Island Review

Group 3

First Place Matthew Nash Sunshine Couple Sequim Gazette Second Place Lloyd Mullen Fasted Man Above Earth Mason County Journal Third Place Chris Thew Fair takes county by the horns Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle

Group 4

First Place Rachel Ciampi Dog Day Auburn Reporter Second Place Greg Farrar Above, the only thing not covered in mud…

Issaquah Press

Third Place Steve Powell Santa Surprised Marysville Globe

Color Pictorial Group 1

First Place Don Coyote Spring Barn LaConner Weekly News Second Place Don Coyote Fancy Fliers LaConner Weekly news Third Place Don Coyote Rain Reflections LaConner Weekly News

Group 2

First Place Luciano Marano I’m going to huff, and puff Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Don Gronning Misty morning on the river Newport Miner Third Place Steve Mitchell Hazy Days Methow Valley News

Group 3

First Place Sophie Bonomi Bright moon on a windy evening North Kitsap Herald Second Place Gordon Weeks Magical day at Lena Lake Mason County Journal Third Place Steve Powell Tulip Festival Arlington Times

Group 4

First Place George Liu Honoring Donnie Chin Northwest Asian Weekly

Color Photo Essay Group 1

First Place Katie Teachout Founders Day Rodeo Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Second Place Katie Teachout, Zachary Van Brunt, Brent Baker Okanogan Complex Fire Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Third Place Katie Teachout Conscious Culture Festival Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Group 2

First Place Damian Mulinix State Track Chinook Observer Second Place Damian Mulinix Backstage at high school play Chinook observer Third Place Paul Dunn Tree Planting Nisqually Valley News

Group 3

First Place Shawna Whelan Frigid waters bring in the new year Mason County Journal Second Place Al Camp, Roger Harnack, Nicole Kuchenbuch, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Ring of Fire Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Third Place Lloyd Mullen Putting on her face/This little piggy Mason County Journal

Group 4

First Place Scott Stoddard Mountain Magic Issaquah Press Second Place Dennis Box Lindsey Hanger brings home bronze for Bears Covington/Maple Valley Reporter Third Place Dennis Box Tahoma boys district cross county champions Covington/Maple Valley Reporter

Color Sports Photo-Action Group 1

First Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Viking defends the ball Islands’ Sounder Second Place Katie Teachout County Fair Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune Third Place Katie Teachout Soccer Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune

Group 2

First Place Brian Kelly Last lap, last gasp Bainbridge Island Review Second Place Luciano Marano Speedy Start Bainbridge Island Review 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 22

Photography Color Sports Photo-Action Group 2 Third Place Brian Kelly In over your head Bainbridge Island Review

Group 3

First Place Al Camp Bulls tamed in the Coulee Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Second Place Brian Myrick Shut Down Daily Record Third Place Michael Dashiell Pressure? What Pressure?

Sequim Gazette

Group 4

First Place Rachel Ciampi Court Battle Auburn Reporter

Second Place Rachel Ciampi Heads up Auburn Reporter Third Place Dennis Box Kentlake senior Lizzy Reichlinger Covington/Maple Valley Reporter

Color Sports Photo-Feature Groups 1 & 4

First Place Terrence Hill State champs visit elementary school Federal Way Mirror Second Place Terrence Hill Andrzej Hughes-Murrary state champ Federal Way Mirror Third Place Colleen Smith Armstrong Cheerleader in training Islands’ Sounder

Group 2

First Place Paul Delaney Eastern wins in overtime over Cal Poly Cheney Free Press Second Place Patrick Webb Comets fly, Nov. 11, 2015 Chinook Observer Third Place Brian Kelly This is not going by the book Bainbridge Island Review

Group 3

First Place Lloyd Mullen Fasted Man above Earth Mason County Journal Second Place Alexandria Valdez Grappling with new challenges Mason County Journal Third Place Dennis Box Winning Ride Enumclaw Courier-Herald

digital Best Website Group 2

First Place Staff Methow Valley News

Group 3

First Place Leader Staff Port Townsend Leader Second Place Steve Powell, Brandon Adam Arlington Times Third Place Pat Grubb Mount Baker Experience Magazine Northern Light

Group 4

First Place Christina Corrales-Toy The Issaquah Press Second Place Steve Powell, Brandon Adam, Kirk Boxleitner, Paul Brown Marysville Globe Website Third Place Sarah Brenden, Ana Karen Perez-Guzman, Dennis Box Covington/Maple Valley Reporter

Best Online Photo Essay (no audio or video) Group 2 First Place Ann McCreary, Nicholas Saunders An un-bearable situation Methow Valley News

Second Place Darla Hussey Ruff & Tumble racing Methow Valley News Third Place Marcy Stamper, Ann McCreary We can’t thank you enough Methow Valley News

Best Use of Social Media Groups 1, 2, 3 &4

Group 3

First Place Scott Stoddard Timber Ridge Tour SnoValley Star Second Place Nicholas Saunders Bear Relocation Methow Valley News Third Place Brandon Adam Arlington loses to Bonney Lake Arlington Time

First Place Michael Dashiell Graysmarsh Lane Fire Sequim Gazette Second Place Dennis Box Memorial Day commemoration Enumclaw Courier-Herald

Group 4

First Place Scott Stoddard A night on patrol with Issaquah police Officer Robert Hendrickson Issaquah Press Second Place Steve Powell New M-P cafeteria Marysville Globe Third Place Dennis Box Black Diamond Labor Day parade Covington/Maple Valley Reporter

First Place Staff Twisp River Fire Methow Valley News

Best Video Groups 1, 2 & 3

Group 4

First Place Brandon Adam Marysville’s 125th Birthday Celebration Marysville Globe Second Place Scott Stoddard Sammamish man brings his 1926 Bentley to Issaquah Import Meet Issaquah Press Third Place Scott Stoddard 520 Bridge Waves Issaquah Press 2016 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 23